Nestled in the eastern Ozarks, there’s a place that believes in family-friendly fun and bonding, where the mountains of southern Missouri meet the bright blue sky, and people of all ages are playing, relaxing and exploring – away from the ordinary. Meet YMCA Trout Lodge, a year round resort located 90 minutes south of St. Louis, where rates include lodging, meals, many activities, and children 0-5 are free.
This stunning year round facility boasts 5,200 acres and 360-acre lake, a country-style resort/retreat/conference center, a working ranch, and Camp Lakewood at the other end of the property – an outdoor education facility, and both summer and winter camps for children.
“When most people hear YMCA, they think of swimming lessons, fitness centers and sports. And yes, we are part of the Gateway Region YMCA’s group of 25 Missouri & Illinois Ys, however Trout Lodge is only one of six YMCAs in the country that is a resort facility. That makes us pretty special in the Midwest.” explains Nelson Bagnardi, Executive Director.
The all-inclusive rates at Trout Lodge make getaways affordable. “It’s wonderful not having to travel – hotel here, restaurants there, activities in other locations. Everything is in one spot” a guest remarks, “And where the staff is so friendly and outgoing”.
Lodging includes guest rooms and loft rooms with views of the lake, and forest or lake-view cabins. Meals are buffet-style. Activities include zip lines, climbing towers, arts & crafts, trail rides, hayrides, archery, riflery, paintball, hiking, caving, mini-golf, volleyball, fun themes and much more. During the summer, spend your days out on the sun-sparkled lake while the warm breezes wash over you as you canoe, kayak, swim, take on the pirate pontoon adventure, or play with the water slide, lake swing, water trampoline and Zorb ball.
YMCA Trout Lodge also hosts corporate events, retreats and family reunions, with meeting spaces, private catering, AV equipment, team building activities and more. They also have popular 55+ adult programs with all-inclusive rates.
Camp Lakewood is well-known as a premier summer and winter camp for children, as well as an outdoor education facility during the off camp months.
YMCA Trout Lodge & Camp Lakewood is a facility for every interest. Groups, children and families come back year after year, where there is always some new activity and the staff welcomes everyone like an old friend. Make your reservation by calling 888-FUN-YMCA or visit ymcaoftheozarks.org.